In a bombshell development that has sent shockwaves through the world of professional darts, veteran star Stephen Bunting has formally submitted evidence to the sport’s governing bodies alleging that teenage sensation Luke Littler gained an unfair advantage during their recent World Championship clash.
The allegations centre on the high-stakes quarter-final match at Alexandra Palace last December, which Littler won 5-1 on his historic run to the final. According to sources close to the investigation, Bunting’s submission includes timestamped video analysis and testimonies that question the legality of specific actions during the match.
The Core of the Allegation
While the full dossier remains confidential, insiders indicate the evidence focuses not on match-fixing, but on alleged breaches of the strict Protocol for Darts Matches, governed by the Darts Regulation Authority (DRA). The specifics are believed to involve:
· Potential Equipment Tampering: Analysis suggesting possible unauthorized modifications to darts or interference with board conditions.
· Breach of Playing Procedures: Claims of irregular retrieval of darts or actions potentially intended to disrupt an opponent’s rhythm outside the standard rules.
· Ambiguous Actions Requiring Clarification: A series of subtle, repeated actions that Bunting’s team argues, in aggregate, constituted an unfair psychological and procedural advantage.
The submission stresses that the complaint is a “procedural and integrity matter,” not a personal attack on the 17-year-old phenomenon. Bunting, known as “The Bullet,” is described as acting out of a “duty to the sport’s integrity” after extensive private review of the match.
Swift Responses and Mounting Pressure
The DRA has confirmed receipt of a “detailed formal complaint” and has launched a preliminary review. “We take all allegations of misconduct with the utmost seriousness. A fair process will be followed,” a DRA spokesperson stated.
Luke Littler’s management team has issued a firm rebuttal: “Luke Littler’s extraordinary performance at the World Championship was a result of his exceptional talent and hard work. We categorically deny any and all allegations of cheating. We are confident the DRA will clear Luke’s name and are considering all options regarding the reputational damage caused by these claims.”
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), which operates the World Championship, declined to comment pending the DRA’s findings.
A Sport Divided
The news has split the darts community. Some players have voiced private support for Bunting’s stance on strict procedural adherence. Others have rallied behind Littler, suggesting the complaint stems from the high-pressure shock of his rapid rise.
“This is the last thing darts needs,” said former world champion Wayne Mardle on sports radio. “Luke brought millions of new fans to our sport. But if there’s evidence, it must be looked at properly. The integrity of the board is everything.”
What Happens Next?
The DRA’s review will determine if there is sufficient evidence to convene a formal disciplinary hearing. Potential outcomes range from dismissal of the complaint to sanctions against Littler if a breach is proven, which could include fines, suspension, or even the controversial stripping of ranking points and prize money.
For now, the spectre of scandal hangs over what was heralded as a glorious new era for darts. As the investigation proceeds, the sport awaits a verdict that could either confirm a tragic breach of trust or validate Littler’s run as one of the greatest fairy tales in sporting history.